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Lack of veteran backup catcher not an issue

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GLENDALE, Ariz. -- Between Tyler Flowers and Hector Gimenez, the White Sox have a combined 119 career games played behind the plate and 293 total at-bats. But general manager Rick Hahn reiterated Wednesday that he's comfortable with the catching combination even without a veteran option.

In contrast, the White Sox have veteran possibilities in Matt Thornton, Jesse Crain and Matt Lindstrom to support second-year hurler Addison Reed as closer.

"You like to have backup plans for everyday guys at every other position but realistically that's not something that happens," Hahn said. "Very few teams have another above-average Major League impact shortstop if theirs go down unless you've got depth in the Minor League system and you were going to promote a guy before you feel he's ready.

"So while there may not be this sort of hedge you have in the bullpen for Tyler, that's not atypical and we do like some of the guys we have in house. Gimenez, again, people haven't seen a lot but he has got a lot of praise from our pitchers and our coaching staff as well and the versatility he brings. The kid [Bryan] Anderson is still 26 years old and a left-handed bat and has potential to help us if need be."

The switch-hitting Gimenez, 30, is scheduled to be in camp Friday after dealing with visa issues. Anderson, a non-roster invite, has 44 career at-bats.